Classic Walnut and Cream Cheese Layer Cake

Introduction:

This decadent walnut and cream cheese layer cake is a perfect blend of moist, nutty goodness and creamy, tangy frosting. Topped generously with crunchy walnuts, this dessert is not only a visual delight but also a treat for your taste buds. Perfect for celebrations or simply as a weekend indulgence, this cake is guaranteed to impress your family and friends!

Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups finely chopped walnuts

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For Topping:

• 1 cup chopped walnuts (toasted, optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Layers:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy. Add oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract, and mix well.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined. Stir in the chopped walnuts.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Frosting:

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Adjust the consistency with more powdered sugar, if needed.

3. Assemble the Cake:

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
2. Place the second cake layer over the frosting and spread more frosting evenly across the top and sides of the cake.
3. Sprinkle chopped walnuts generously over the top of the cake, pressing them gently into the frosting for adherence.

4. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the cake and serve! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

This cake combines textures and flavors beautifully—a must-try for walnut lovers!